Rotary steering wheel assembly

Abstract

A vehicle steering wheel assembly includes a rim including a plurality of spokes, and an adjustment assembly operably coupled to the rim at one or more of the plurality of spokes. The adjustment assembly includes a motor. The adjustment assembly is configured to rotate the rim about an upper rim joint between an extended state and a partially stowed state via the motor, and the vehicle steering wheel assembly is operable in both the extended state and the partially stowed state.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The information provided in this section is for the purpose of generally presenting the context of the present disclosure. The work of the presently named inventors, to the extent it is described in this section and in aspects of the description that may not qualify as prior art at the time of filing, is neither explicitly nor implicitly admitted to be prior art against the present disclosure.

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to a steering wheel assembly. Background Art

[0003] The vehicle may have various functions including autonomous capabilities. The autonomous capabilities of the vehicle generally relieve the driver from the task of operating the vehicle. For example, during the autonomous control of the vehicle, the steering wheel of the autonomous vehicle may be completely stowed. Although the stowage of the steering wheel provides increased space for the driver, the driver is generally not easily accessible to the steering wheel until the autonomous control mode is fully deactivated and the steering wheel has been returned and / or reset to a position where the driver can reach and operate it. In some autonomous vehicles, the steering wheel may be completely stowed and subsequently removed from the stowage device to provide the driver with access to the steering wheel. However, the steering wheel is generally inoperable when stowed. The present disclosure provides partial stowage of the steering wheel when the vehicle is in autonomous mode, and when the steering wheel is in its partially stowed state and when the steering wheel moves from its partially stowed state to its driving position state, the steering wheel is positioned in a position where the driver can still reach and operate and / or turn the steering wheel. The mechanism disclosed herein is also applicable to a fully stowed steering wheel. Summary of the invention

[0004] In some aspects, a steering wheel assembly for a vehicle includes a center body including a plurality of spokes including a pivot joint at an upper spoke of the plurality of spokes. An outer rim is operably coupled to the center body at the plurality of spokes, and at least one adjustment assembly is operably coupled to the center body and the outer rim. The at least one adjustment assembly is configured to rotate the outer rim between an extended state and a partially stowed state, and includes a motor and a first adjustment joint coupled to the motor and opposite a second adjustment joint. The adjustment assembly is configured to rotate the outer rim from the extended state to the partially stowed state via the motor, and the steering wheel assembly is operable in both the extended state and the partially stowed state.

[0005] In some configurations, the adjustment assembly may include a housing, wherein the motor and the first adjustment joint are positioned within the housing. Optionally, the central body may be operable between an extended position and a retracted position. In some instances, the steering wheel assembly may include an adjustment rod. The first end of the adjustment rod may be operably coupled to the motor, and the second end of the adjustment rod extends through a nut and is operably coupled to the nut, the nut being configured to translate between the first end and the second end along the length of the adjustment rod. The adjustment rod may include at least one of a first stop and a second stop. The first stop may be proximate to the first end of the adjustment rod, and the second stop may be on an opposite side of the nut and proximate to the second end of the adjustment rod. In some cases, a gap may be defined at the second adjustment joint between the adjustment assembly and the outer rim.

[0006] Optionally, the upper spoke may include an upper spoke joint that may be positioned along the length of the upper spoke, including on either side of the control and on the spoke extension. . The adjustment assembly may include a linear motor. The upper spoke joint may include an outer housing that rotates with the outer rim and an inner housing that remains stationary relative to the center body. In some examples, the rotational travel of the outer rim may include a fully stowed state. In some cases, the airbag may be configured to deploy into different shapes based on at least one of the angle of the outer rim and the position of the center body. Optionally, at least one lower spoke of the plurality of spokes may include at least one adjustment assembly. At least one lower spoke may include at least one of a pivot joint, a universal joint, and a flexible material joint. In some configurations, the rotation of the outer rim may be controlled by one of the driver and the autonomous vehicle software.

[0007] In other aspects, a vehicle steering wheel assembly includes a rim and an adjustment assembly, the rim including a plurality of spokes, the adjustment assembly operably coupled to the rim at one or more of the plurality of spokes including an upper spoke and at least one lower spoke, the upper spoke including a pivot joint. The adjustment assembly is operably coupled to the rim at one or more of the plurality of spokes. The adjustment assembly includes a motor, and the adjustment assembly is configured to rotate the rim about the pivot joint of each upper spoke between an extended state and a partially stowed state via the motor. The vehicle steering wheel assembly is operable in both the extended state and the partially stowed state.

[0008] In some examples, the motor may include one of a linear motor and a rotary motor. The adjustment assembly may include an upper housing and a lower housing, and the adjustment assembly may be configured to translate the lower housing relative to the upper housing via the motor. In some configurations, the adjustment assembly may include an adjustment rod and a non-rotating nut, and the rotary motor is configured to translate the non-rotating nut along the adjustment rod. Optionally, a first joint of the adjustment assembly may be defined at at least one lower spoke proximate to the rim, and a second joint of the adjustment assembly may be proximate to an upper spoke. In some examples, at least one lower spoke may include a first lower spoke and a second lower spoke, and the first lower spoke and the second lower spoke are each individually defined by the adjustment assembly.

[0009] In an additional aspect, a steering wheel assembly includes a center body including a plurality of spokes and operable between an extended position and a retracted position. An outer rim is operably coupled to the center body at the plurality of spokes, and an adjustment assembly is operably coupled to the center body and integrally formed with one or more of the plurality of spokes. The adjustment assembly is configured to translate the outer rim between an extended state and a stowed state. The steering wheel assembly is operable in both the extended state and the stowed state. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected configurations and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0011] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle according to the present disclosure;

[0012] Figure 2 is a partial perspective view of a three-spoke steering wheel assembly according to the present disclosure;

[0013] Figure 3A is a schematic side view of a steering wheel assembly in an extended state according to the present disclosure;

[0014] Figure 3B is in an intermediate state according to the present disclosure Figure 3A A side schematic diagram of a steering wheel assembly;

[0015] Figure 3C is in a retracted state according to the present disclosure Figure 3A A schematic side view of a steering wheel;

[0016] Figure 4A is a cross-sectional view of an adjustment assembly according to the present disclosure;

[0017] Figure 4B is a partial view of a pivot joint on an upper spoke according to the present disclosure;

[0018] Figure 5is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a steering wheel assembly according to the present disclosure; and

[0019] Figure 6 is a partial perspective view of the interior of a vehicle having a four-spoke steering wheel assembly in a stowed position according to the present disclosure.

[0020] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] Example configurations will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. Example configurations are provided so that the present disclosure will be thorough and will fully convey the scope of the present disclosure to those of ordinary skill in the art. Specific details, such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the configurations of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example configurations may be embodied in many different forms, and that the specific details and example configurations should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure.

[0022] The terms used herein are only used for the purpose of describing specific exemplary configurations and are not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular articles "a", "an" and "the" may also be intended to include plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms "comprises", "comprising", "including" and "having" are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of features, steps, operations, elements and / or parts, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, parts and / or groups thereof. The method steps, processes and operations described herein should not be interpreted as necessarily requiring them to be performed in the specific order discussed or shown, unless specifically identified as an execution order. Additional or alternative steps may be adopted.

[0023] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on another element or layer," "engaged to," "connected to," "attached to," or "coupled to" another element or layer, it may be directly on, directly engaged with, connected to, attached to, or coupled to another element or layer, or there may be intermediate elements or layers. Conversely, when an element is referred to as being "directly on another element or layer," "directly engaged to," "directly connected to," "directly attached to," or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there may be no intermediate elements or layers. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a similar manner (e.g., "between" versus "directly between," "adjacent" versus "directly adjacent," etc.). As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more associated listed items.

[0024] The terms first, second, third, etc. can be used in this article to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or parts. These elements, components, regions, layers and / or parts should not be limited by these terms. These terms can only be used to distinguish an element, component, region, layer or part from another region, layer or part. Unless the context clearly indicates, terms such as "first", "second" and other numerical terms do not imply order or sequence. Therefore, without departing from the teaching of the example configuration, the first element, component, region, layer or part discussed below can be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer or part.

[0025] In this application, including the definitions below, the term module may be replaced by the term circuit. The term module may refer to, be part of, or include: an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC); a digital, analog, or mixed analog / digital discrete circuit; a digital, analog, or mixed analog / digital integrated circuit; a combinational logic circuit; a field programmable gate array (FPGA); a processor (shared, dedicated, or group) that executes code; a processor (shared, dedicated, or group) that stores code executed by a memory; other suitable hardware components that provide the described functionality; or a combination of some or all of the above, such as in a system on a chip.

[0026] The term code as used above may include software, firmware and / or microcode, and may refer to a program, a routine, a function, a class and / or an object. The term shared processor includes a single processor that executes some or all codes from multiple modules. The term processor group includes a processor that executes some or all codes from one or more modules in combination with an additional processor. The term shared memory includes a single memory that stores some or all codes from multiple modules. The memory term group includes a memory that stores some or all codes from one or more modules in combination with an additional memory. The term memory may be a subset of the term computer-readable medium. The term computer-readable medium does not include transient electrical signals and electromagnetic signals propagated through the medium, and therefore can be considered to be tangible and non-transient memory. Non-limiting examples of non-temporary memory include tangible computer-readable media, which include non-volatile memory, magnetic storage, and optical storage.

[0027] The apparatus and methods described in this application may be implemented in part or in whole by one or more computer programs executed by one or more processors. The computer program includes processor executable instructions stored on at least one non-transitory tangible computer readable medium. The computer program may also include and / or rely on stored data.

[0028] Software applications (i.e., software resources) may refer to computer software that enables a computing device to perform tasks. Example applications include, but are not limited to, system diagnostic applications, system management applications, system maintenance applications, word processing applications, spreadsheet applications, messaging applications, media streaming applications, social networking applications, and gaming applications.

[0029] Non-transitory memory can be a physical device used to temporarily or permanently store programs (e.g., instruction sequences) or data (e.g., program state information) for use by a computing device. Non-transitory memory can be volatile and / or non-volatile addressable semiconductor memory. Examples of non-volatile memory include, but are not limited to, flash memory and read-only memory (ROM) / programmable read-only memory (PROM) / erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM) / electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) (e.g., commonly used for firmware, such as bootloaders). Examples of volatile memory include, but are not limited to, random access memory (RAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), phase change memory (PCM), and disk or tape.

[0030] These computer programs (also referred to as programs, software, software applications, or code) include machine instructions for a programmable processor and may be implemented in high-level procedural and / or object-oriented programming languages ​​and / or assembly / machine languages. As used herein, the terms "machine-readable medium" and "computer-readable medium" refer to any computer program product, non-transitory computer-readable medium, memory, and / or device (e.g., disk, optical disk, processor, programmable logic device (PLD)) for providing machine instructions and / or data to a programmable device, including a machine-readable medium that receives machine instructions as a machine-readable signal. The term "machine-readable signal" refers to any signal for providing machine instructions and / or data to a programmable processor.

[0031] Various implementations of the systems and techniques described herein can be realized in digital electronic and / or optical circuits, integrated circuits, specially designed ASICs (application specific integrated circuits), computer hardware, firmware, software, and / or combinations thereof. These various implementations may include implementations in one or more computer programs executable and / or interpretable on a programmable system that includes at least one programmable processor, which may be special purpose or general purpose, coupled to receive data and instructions from a storage system, at least one input device, and at least one output device, and to send data and instructions to the storage system, at least one input device, and at least one output device.

[0032] The processes and logic flows described in this specification can be performed by one or more programmable processors (also referred to as data processing hardware), which execute one or more computer programs to perform functions by operating on input data and generating outputs. The processes and logic flows can also be performed by special logic circuits (e.g., FPGA (field programmable gate array) or ASIC (application-specific integrated circuit)). As an example, processors suitable for executing computer programs include both general-purpose and special-purpose microprocessors, and any one or more processors of any type of digital computer. Typically, the processor will receive instructions and data from a read-only memory or a random access memory or both. The basic elements of a computer are a processor for executing instructions and one or more memory devices for storing instructions and data. Typically, a computer will also include one or more mass storage devices (e.g., magnetic disks, magneto-optical disks, or optical disks) for storing data, or be operably coupled to receive data from it or transmit data to it or both. However, a computer does not need to have such a device. Computer readable media suitable for storing computer program instructions and data include all forms of nonvolatile memory, media and memory devices, including, for example, semiconductor memory devices, such as EPROM, EEPROM and flash memory devices; magnetic disks, such as internal hard disks or removable disks; magneto-optical disks; and CD ROM and DVD-ROM disks. The processor and memory may be supplemented by, or incorporated in, special purpose logic circuits.

[0033] To provide interaction with a user, one or more aspects of the present disclosure may be implemented on a computer having a display device (e.g., a CRT (cathode ray tube), LCD (liquid crystal display) monitor, or touch screen) for displaying information to the user and optionally a keyboard and pointing device (e.g., a mouse or trackball) through which the user can provide input to the computer. Other kinds of devices may also be used to provide interaction with the user; for example, the feedback provided to the user may be any form of sensory feedback, such as visual feedback, auditory feedback, or tactile feedback; and input from the user may be received in any form, including sound, voice, or tactile input. In addition, the computer may interact with the user by sending documents to and receiving documents from a device used by the user; for example, by sending a web page to a web browser on a user's client device in response to a request received from the web browser.

[0034] refer to Figures 1 to 6, a steering wheel assembly 10 for a vehicle 12 includes a center body 14 and an outer rim 16. In some aspects of the present disclosure, the vehicle 12 is an electric vehicle (EV) having autonomous or semi-autonomous capabilities. Additionally or alternatively, the vehicle 12 can be configured with an internal combustion engine (ICE). In other aspects, the vehicle 12 can be a hybrid vehicle that combines EV and ICE components and capabilities. Other powertrains, such as those using hydrogen, can also be used.

[0035] Specific reference Figure 2-3C , a plurality of spokes 18 are disposed between the outer rim 16 and the center body 14 and couple the outer rim 16 to the center body 14. It is generally contemplated that the plurality of spokes 18 may include three spokes 18 and / or four spokes 18, depending on the configuration of the steering wheel assembly 10. However, the plurality of spokes 18 may include any number of spokes. In some configurations, the plurality of spokes 18 may include controls 20 ( Figure 6 ). As described in more detail below, the control 20 may provide the driver of the vehicle 12 with the ability to adjust the steering wheel assembly 10. For example, the control 20 may adjust the steering wheel assembly 10 between an extended state and a stowed state. The control 20 may also include other vehicle controls, including but not limited to audio controls, odometer controls, cruise controls, display controls, and any other feasible vehicle controls.

[0036] The bottom spoke 18c can be coupled to or otherwise proximate to the adjustment assembly 22. The adjustment assembly 22 is operably coupled to the center body 14 and the outer rim 16 at the bottom spoke 18c. In some configurations, the bottom spoke 18c can be integrally formed with the adjustment assembly 22. For example, the adjustment assembly 22 can extend between the center body 14 and the lower portion 24 of the outer rim 16 to define the bottom spoke 18c. As described above, the plurality of spokes 18 can include four spokes. Figure 6 In the example shown, two of the four spokes 18 (which are spokes 18c located at the lower portion 24 of the outer rim 16) can be configured as adjustment components 22. The plurality of spokes 18 can include three spokes. Figure 2 In the example shown, one of the three spokes 18 , namely the spoke 18 c located at the lower portion 24 of the outer rim 16 , may be configured as an adjustment assembly 22 .

[0037] Thus, multiple adjustment assemblies 22 may be used as the lower spokes 18c of the steering wheel assembly 10. As described above, each adjustment assembly 22 extends between the center body 14 and the outer rim 16. It is contemplated that for multiple adjustment assemblies 22, one or more universal pivot joints may be provided at the attachment point of each adjustment assembly 22. Universal joints may be used with a four-spoke steering wheel because two lower adjustment assemblies 22 are in the two lower spokes 18c, while pivot joints may be used with a three-spoke steering wheel because a single lower adjustment assembly 22 is in a single lower spoke 18c. Alternatively, joints made of a flexible material capable of bending may be used for any of the lower adjustment assemblies 22. In any of these configurations, the adjustment assembly 22 is configured to rotate the outer rim 16 between an extended state and a stowed state by changing the length of the lower spoke 18c. It is contemplated that the upper spokes 18a, 18b may be equipped with pivot joints 26 to assist in tilting the outer rim 16 about the center body 14. The pivot joint 26 may be located in the upper spoke 18a, 18b, or extend from a spoke extension forward of the spoke 18a, 18b. Figure 2 , 4B 6 show the pivot joint 26 in the upper spokes 18a, 18b, and Figures 3A-3C There is a pivot joint 26 on a spoke extension 27 extending forwardly of the upper spokes 18a, 18b with the protrusion adjacent the center body 14.

[0038] Still refer to Figures 2 to 3C The steering wheel assembly 10 can be operated between an extended state and a partially retracted state via the adjustment assembly 22. Figure 2 As shown, the steering wheel assembly 10 is positioned in a partially stowed state, wherein the adjustment assembly 22 is fully extended to position the outer rim 16 in the partially stowed state. The partially stowed state generally corresponds to an operating state of the steering wheel assembly 10, wherein the upper portion of the rim 16 is located in a forward position away from the driver. For example, when the steering wheel assembly 10 is in the partially stowed state, the driver of the vehicle 12 can perform standard driving procedures because the steering wheel, and in particular the lower portion of the rim, can still be reached. The extended state is defined by the upper portion of the rim 16 being adjusted to a retracted length via the adjustment assembly 22 and being located in a rearward position toward the driver. Figures 3A to 3C The steering wheel assembly 10 is shown transitioning from the extended state to the partially retracted state. The driver may actuate the control 20 ( Figure 6), the control 20 may be disposed on the spoke 18, or may alternatively be placed in an alternative feasible location within the vehicle 12. For example, the control 20 may be located on a door or center console of the vehicle 12. Alternatively, the control 20 may be on the center body 14, on a stalk located on the steering column, or on the instrument panel 30. Upon actuation of the control 20, the adjustment assembly 22 extends to effectively tilt the outer rim 16 on the center body 14, or alternatively retracts to tilt the outer rim so that the upper rim portion is closer to the driver.

[0039] Although the upper portion 28 of the outer rim 16 is tilted away from the driver, it is contemplated that the lower portion 24 extends slightly toward the driver when in the partially stowed position. In some configurations, the upper portion 28 of the outer rim 16 can be disposed below or otherwise near the dashboard 30 of the vehicle 12 in the stowed position. The center body 14 can also be retracted to pull the steering wheel assembly 10 closer to the dashboard 30, thereby maximizing the space between the driver and the steering wheel assembly 10 by a motor 68 typically located in the steering column 66 of the vehicle 12. The motor 68 can also reposition the center body to a higher or lower position. Despite the repositioning of the steering wheel assembly 10, the driver can still access at least the lower portion 24 of the outer rim 16 to perform operable maneuvers of the vehicle 12. The driver can also access the upper portion 28 of the outer rim 16 if the driver leans forward or has longer arms and there is enough clearance around the dashboard 30 to position the hand around the upper portion 28 of the outer rim 16. Furthermore, the steering wheel assembly 10 may also be used in a fully stowed steering wheel orientation where the driver cannot fully access and turn the outer rim 16 due to interference with the instrument panel 30 or lack of hand clearance around the outer rim 16 due to interference with the instrument panel 30 .

[0040] Further references Figure 2-3C , the center body 14 can be extended and retracted in conjunction with the activation of the adjustment assembly 22. The center body 14 can be adjusted using the same control 20 as the adjustment assembly, or can be adjusted by a separate control instead. The center body 14 can translate the entire steering wheel assembly 10 away from the driver to define an increased space between the driver and the steering wheel assembly 10. By modifying the length of the adjustment assembly 22, the steering wheel assembly 10 remains operable by the driver throughout the transition of the steering wheel assembly 10, as well as during the retraction of the center body 14. For example, while the autonomous controls of the vehicle 12 may be in an operable effect, the driver can use the steering wheel assembly 10 at any point to adjust or correct the driving mode of the autonomous controls. Therefore, the steering wheel assembly 10 remains operable in the extended state, during the transition between states, and in the partially retracted state, so that the driver can use the steering wheel assembly 10 to perform driving maneuvers.

[0041] Reference now Figures 3A to 6 , the driver can choose to partially retract the steering wheel assembly 10 by activating the adjustment assembly 22, thereby achieving autonomous control of the vehicle 12. Similarly, when under autonomous control, the vehicle 12 can return control to the driver by activating the adjustment assembly 22 to position the steering wheel assembly 10 in the extended state. The adjustment assembly 22 includes a motor 40, which is configured to adjust the length of the lower spoke 18c, thereby rotating the outer rim 16 between the extended state and the retracted state. In another option, the adjustment assembly 22 can use a linear motor 40b instead of a rotary motor 40a, an adjustment rod 42 and a nut 44. Any other motor device and associated motion mechanism that achieves translational motion can be replaced. In one option, the motor 40 is a rotary motor 40a operably coupled to a threaded adjustment rod 42, and the threaded adjustment rod 42 is threadedly coupled to the nut 44. The nut 44 is configured not to rotate, so when the adjustment rod 42 rotates, the nut translates along the length of the adjustment rod 42. The motor 40a rotates the adjustment rod 42. Each of the motor 40a, the adjustment rod 42 and the nut 44 is disposed in a housing 46 of the adjustment assembly 22. The housing 46 may include an upper housing 46a and a lower housing 46b, wherein the lower housing 46b is selectively received in the upper housing 46a. Figure 4B In the cross-section shown, the upper shell 46a and the lower shell 46b do not have a defined cross-section. The shells 46a, 46b can have any transverse cross-section, such as a circular, oval, rectangular or triangular cross-section. The adjustment rod 42 can be configured to translate the lower shell 46b within the upper shell 46a. In some configurations, the adjustment assembly 22 is configured as a bottom spoke 18c, so that the housing 46 of the adjustment assembly 22 generally defines the bottom spoke 18c. Therefore, in some examples, the bottom spoke 18c can be telescopically extended and retracted in response to actuation of the motor 40. As another alternative, the motor 40a can be located on the rim 16 attachment portion of the lower spoke 18c, and the nut 44 can be located on the center body 14 attachment portion of the lower spoke 18c. The upper shell 46a can be selectively accommodated in the lower shell 46b.

[0042] The adjustment assembly 22 also includes an adjustment joint 48 that helps rotate the steering wheel assembly 10 from the extended state to the stowed state. As described above, the adjustment joint 48 can be a pivot joint or a universal joint, depending on the number of bottom spokes 18c and the configuration of the steering wheel assembly 10. The adjustment joint 48 can also be composed of a flexible material that can bend. The adjustment joint 48 includes an upper adjustment joint 48a and a lower adjustment joint 48b. The upper adjustment joint 48a is positioned close to the center body 14, and the lower adjustment joint 48b connects the adjustment assembly 22 and the outer rim 16. (i) One of the rotary motor 40a, the adjustment rod 42 and the nut 44, (ii) the linear motor 40b, and (iii) any other motor device and associated motion mechanism can be located between the upper adjustment joint 48a and the lower adjustment joint 48b. A gap 50 is defined at the location where the adjustment assembly 22 is coupled to the outer rim 16 at the lower adjustment joint 48b. The gap 50 may be generally wedge-shaped and the width of the lower portion 24 of the adjustment assembly 22 to provide a range of motion for the outer rim 16 to rotate relative to the adjustment assembly 22. The outer rim 16 rotates about the lower adjustment joint 48b such that the gap 50 helps provide sufficient range of motion for the outer rim 16 to rotate between the extended position and the partially stowed position.

[0043] Further references Figure 3A-6 , the adjustment assembly 22 is articulated by the operational movement between the motor 40a, the adjustment rod 42, and the nut 44. The motor 40a is activated in response to the control 20 or the autonomous vehicle software and causes the adjustment rod 42 to rotate in the nut 44. The adjustment rod 42 includes a stop 52 disposed on a first end 54 and a second end 56 of the adjustment rod 42. For example, the first stop 52a is shown near the first end 54 of the adjustment rod 42, and the second stop 52b is shown near the second end 56 of the adjustment rod 42 on the opposite side of the nut 44.

[0044] The stop 52 prevents the adjustment assembly 22 from being over-extended or over-compressed. For example, the nut 44 may engage the stop 52 at a predetermined location corresponding to each of the extended state and the stowed state of the steering wheel assembly 10. Although the stop 52 is shown as being located at the first end 54 and the second end 56 of the adjustment rod 42, it is contemplated that the stop 52 may be positioned at any feasible location along the adjustment rod 42 to set the extended state and the stowed state. As described above, the arrangement of the motor 40a and the nut 44 relative to the stop 52 and the adjustment rod 42 may be modified from the arrangement shown in FIG. 4. For example, FIG. 4 shows that the first end 54 of the adjustment rod 42 is coupled to the motor, and the second end 56 of the adjustment rod extends through the nut 44 and is operably coupled to the nut 44. However, in some examples, the motor 40a may be coupled to the second end 56, and the nut 44 may extend through the first end 54 of the adjustment rod 42 and be coupled to the first end 54 of the adjustment rod 42. In addition, if a linear motor 40b is used, the linear motor 40b may have a built-in stop.

[0045] The motor 40a can be configured to reverse in response to the engagement between the nut 44 and one of the stops 52 to minimize over-extension or compression. For example, if the driver depresses the control 20 to activate the adjustment assembly 22 and does not release, the motor 40a can detect the engagement between the nut 44 and the stop 52 and reverse to a predetermined degree. If a linear motor 40b is used, similar functionality can also be achieved. In some examples, if the control 20 remains in place for a predetermined period of time associated with the full extension or full retraction of the adjustment assembly 22, the control 20 can provide tactile feedback to the driver. In some cases, the adjustment assembly 22 may not have a mechanical stop 52. For example, during operation, the adjustment rod 42 rotates within the nut 44 to extend and retract the lower housing 46b within the upper housing 46a, which in turn rotates the outer rim 16. The software controlling the motor 40a can count the rotations of the adjustment rod 42, and the number of rotations can be used instead of the stop 52. Likewise, the software controlling the linear motor 40b can monitor the displacement, and the displacement can be used in place of a stop to limit the actuation distance.

[0046] Figures 3A to 3C Specifically shown is an example of the steering wheel assembly 10 rotating from the extended state to the partially stowed state, as generally mentioned above. As the steering wheel assembly 10 transitions to the partially stowed state ( Figure 3C), the outer rim 16 passes through the intermediate state. It is contemplated that in some examples, the adjustment assembly 22 may be stopped when the outer rim 16 is in the intermediate state. The intermediate state provides the driver with additional space between the driver and the steering wheel assembly 10 while maintaining a degree of accessibility to the steering wheel assembly 10. Although the steering wheel assembly 10 remains accessible and operable in each of the extended state, the intermediate state, and the partially stowed state, the driver may selectively adjust the outer rim 16 to any position within the intermediate state between the extended state and the partially stowed state.

[0047] Specific reference Figure 4B , shows the pivot joint 26 on the upper spokes 18a, 18b. The pivot joint 26 consists of a rod 55 extending from the outer rim 16. The rod 55 is rotatably connected to a rod receptacle 59. The rod receptacle 59 may be a single piece or may be two or more pieces. Figure 4B The two-piece rod receptacle 59 design shown in the drawings may have mechanical fasteners (not shown) to attach the two pieces together and may have various shapes other than the rectangular cross-section shown. The pivot joint 26 enables the outer rim 16 to rotate relative to the center body 14 as the adjustment assembly 22 changes length. The outer housing 61a and the inner housing 61b may be located on either side of the pivot joint 26. Figure 4B In the embodiment of the present invention, the inner shell 61a and the outer shell 61b have a rectangular cross section. However, the shells 61a, 61b can have any cross section, such as a circular cross section. The outer shell 61a rotates with the edge 16, while the inner shell 61b remains stationary with the center body 14. Note that the pivot joint 26 can be located anywhere on the upper spokes 18, 18a, 18b. Figure 6 Two potential alternatives are shown: pivot joint 26a is located on the outside of control 20, while pivot joint 26b is located on the inside of control 20.

[0048] Specific reference Figure 5The steering wheel assembly 10 is also equipped with an airbag 60 disposed within the center body 14. The airbag 60 is compressed within the center body 14 and is configured to deploy to an airbag depth 62. The airbag depth 62 can be configured with multiple depths depending on the orientation of the steering wheel assembly 10. For example, the airbag 60 includes one or more tethers 64 attached to the airbag 60 and a release mechanism 65 for extending or completely releasing the tethers 64. The release mechanism 65 is typically a pyrotechnic device that is configured to assist in the deployment of the airbag 60 by controlling the deployment shape via the length of the one or more tethers 64 depending on the degree of retraction of the steering wheel assembly 10 and the position of the center body 14. The release mechanism can also open or close the airbag vent in the airbag housing to adjust the airbag vent area to better determine its size relative to the airbag shape controlled by the airbag tether. The airbag depth 62 accommodates different positions of the steering wheel rim 16 and the center body 14 storing the airbag 60. As described above, the center body 14 is operable to extend and retract relative to the driver to provide increased space between the driver and the steering wheel assembly 10. The tether 64 helps provide an extended range for the air bag 60 when deployed when, for example, the steering wheel assembly 10 is retracted away from the driver. Therefore, the air bag 60 can be described as a dual-depth or multi-depth air bag 60. In addition, the air bag inflator 67 can be a single-stage inflator or a multi-stage inflator, thereby enabling different outputs to be controlled by sensed occupant position, sensed seat position, sensed collision severity, sensed center body position 14, and sensed steering wheel rim 16 orientation.

[0049] The release mechanism 65 can control the length of the tether 64 when the center body 14 is positioned at different positions relative to the driver. Figure 5 As shown, the center body 14 containing the air bag 60 is attached to the steering column 66. The steering column 66 may include a motor 68 to translate the center body 14 from the extended position to the retracted position. The motor 68 may also reposition the center body to a higher or lower position. When the center body 14 passes a predetermined forward distance along the steering column 66 to extend the air bag depth 62, the release mechanism 65 of the control tether 64 may change the activation state. The motor 68 retracts the center body 14 and the steering wheel assembly 10 away from the driver and also moves the center body 14 toward the driver. As described above, the motor 68 may be activated by the control 20. In some examples, the control 20 for activating the adjustment assembly 22 may be the same control 20 that activates the motor 68. Therefore, the adjustment assembly 22 and the motor 68 may be activated simultaneously to position the steering wheel assembly 10 in an extended state, an intermediate state, or a partially retracted state away from the driver. In other examples, the motor 68 may have controls separate from the adjustment assembly 22 such that the drive may selectively extend and retract the center body 14 and selectively adjust the outer rim 16 .

[0050] With further reference to FIGS. 4-6 , the steering wheel assembly 10 advantageously provides a selectable partially stowed state to provide an improved driver experience during autonomous functions. Figure 6 The steering wheel assembly 10 is shown in a partially stowed state, with the center body 14 retracted. When the vehicle 12 performs autonomous functions, the driver may have increased space in the cockpit to perform alternative functions. For example, the steering wheel assembly 10 may be equipped with a display that can be stowed in the instrument panel 30, and the display may extend above the center body 14 for use by the driver. In other examples, the display may extend from the instrument panel 30, and a keyboard may be positioned on the center body 14 for use in conjunction with the display to perform computer functions.

[0051] In any of the examples described herein, the steering wheel assembly 10 advantageously maximizes the space around the driver while maintaining the driver's accessibility to the outer rim 16. Even in the partially retracted state, the driver's ability to reach and operate the steering wheel assembly 10 also helps to perform adjustments during the autonomous function of the vehicle 12. In some cases, the driver can respond to scenes during the autonomous function, such as avoiding objects or obstacles along the road. The accessibility of the steering wheel assembly 10 is highlighted by the driver being able to use the partially retracted steering wheel assembly 10 to maintain the operation of the vehicle 12, although it is advantageously in a partially retracted state away from the driver. Therefore, although the steering wheel assembly 10 is partially retracted and the driver has increased space, the driver maintains a certain degree of control over the vehicle 12 by maintaining the accessible and operable steering wheel assembly 10 during the autonomous function. In addition, if the vehicle 12 returns the autonomous driving task to the driver, the driver can reach the outer rim 16 during the entire time frame of the outer rim 16 moving from the partially retracted state to the extended state.

[0052] As another alternative, the steering wheel assembly 10 described herein may include a fully stowed steering wheel, wherein the driver cannot access and rotate the steering wheel in the fully stowed state. This may be accomplished by increasing the travel of the adjustment assembly 22 or forming an interface with the instrument panel 30 in the fully stowed state, wherein the steering wheel rim 16 cannot rotate in the fully stowed state.

[0053] Many embodiments have been described. However, it should be understood that various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, other embodiments are within the scope of the appended claims.

[0054] The foregoing description is provided for the purpose of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present disclosure. The individual elements or features of a particular configuration are generally not limited to that particular configuration, but are interchangeable where applicable and can be used in a selected configuration, even if not specifically shown or described. It can also be varied in many ways. Such variations should not be considered as departing from the present disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A steering wheel assembly for a vehicle, the steering wheel assembly comprising: a center body including a plurality of spokes including a pivot joint at an upper spoke of the plurality of spokes; an outer rim operably coupled to the center body at the plurality of spokes; as well as at least one adjustment assembly operably coupled to the center body and the outer rim and configured to rotate the outer rim between an extended state and a partially retracted state, the adjustment assembly comprising a motor and a first adjustment joint coupled to the motor and opposed to a second adjustment joint, the adjustment assembly configured to rotate the outer rim from the extended state to the partially retracted state via the motor, the steering wheel assembly being operable in both the extended state and the partially retracted state. 2 . The steering wheel assembly of claim 1 , wherein the adjustment assembly includes a housing, wherein the motor and the first adjustment joint are positioned within the housing.

3. The steering wheel assembly of claim 1 , further comprising an adjustment rod, a first end of the adjustment rod being operably coupled to the motor, and a second end of the adjustment rod extending through a nut and operably coupled to the nut, the nut being configured to translate between the first end and the second end along the length of the adjustment rod.

4. The steering wheel assembly of claim 3, wherein the adjustment rod includes at least one of a first stopper proximate to the first end of the adjustment rod and a second stopper located on an opposite side of the nut and proximate to the second end of the adjustment rod.

5. The steering wheel assembly of claim 1, wherein the upper spoke includes an upper spoke nipple positionable along the length of the upper spoke, including on either side of a control and on a spoke extension.

6. The steering wheel assembly of claim 5, wherein the upper spoke nipple includes an outer housing that rotates with the outer rim and an inner housing that remains stationary relative to the center body.

7. The steering wheel assembly of claim 1, wherein the rotational travel of the outer rim includes a fully stowed condition. 8 . The steering wheel assembly of claim 1 , further comprising an air bag configured to deploy into different shapes based on at least one of an angle of the outer rim and a position of the center body.

9. The steering wheel assembly of claim 1, wherein at least one lower spoke of the plurality of spokes includes the at least one adjustment assembly.

10. The steering wheel assembly of claim 9, wherein the at least one lower spoke includes at least one of a pivot joint, a universal joint, and a flexible material joint.

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